Texas Legal Legend Rusty Hardin Honored with Paul Stallings Civility and Ethics Award from Texas Chapters of American Board of Trial Advocates

Rusty Hardin & Associates is pleased to announce that Rusty Hardin has been named a recipient of the 2023 Paul Stallings Civility and Ethics Award from the Texas Chapters of the American Board of Trial Advocates (TEX-ABOTA). The award recognizes Mr. Hardin’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, civility, graciousness, and the highest moral and ethical standards. 

The organization’s Houston chapter selected Mr. Hardin for exemplifying exceptional qualities throughout the recent impeachment trial of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, which it calls a testament to his dedication to the practice of law.  

The Houston chapter also selected well-known veteran trial lawyer Richard Mithoff to receive the prestigious award. 

“Rusty demonstrated to the entire state of Texas what it means to vigorously uphold the rule of law and do it with civility and professionalism,” said ABOTA Houston chapter president Sherie Potts Beckman during the October 20 award ceremony in Dallas. 

The chapter then recognized Mr. Hardin and Mr. Mithoff in a separate celebration in Houston on November 4. 

The award was named after the late Paul Stallings, a renowned Houston trial lawyer who was a mentor to many attorneys and judges and was well known for his commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards. 

TEX-ABOTA’s selection process for the award is meticulous, with a committee appointed by the chapter president to thoroughly evaluate nominees and gather member input. The final decision rests with the executive committee, which chose Mr. Hardin and Mr. Mithoff.  

“I have always believed it is important to be gracious whether you win or lose. It is especially important to maintain that grace in the face of defeat,” said Mr. Hardin. “I am a true believer in our profession, this organization, and what it stands for, which is why I am sincerely thankful for this award.” 

Mr. Hardin has been a member of ABOTA since 2006. Membership is extended by invitation only. To qualify, members must have extensive trial experience, having tried at least 10 civil jury cases to a conclusion. Mr. Hardin has tried more than 170 jury trials, representing companies and individuals in both civil and criminal cases.